High Fashion Streetwear
Lisa Folawiyo
A Lagos lawyer-turned-designer, Lisa Folawiyo started Jewel by Lisa in 2005 with twelve yards of Ankara fabric and her mother's sewing machine. She is credited with reinventing wax-print Ankara as luxury — hand-embellishing each yard with thousands of sequins and beads before cutting. Renamed simply Lisa Folawiyo, the house now ships from showrooms in Lagos and New York, and has dressed Solange Knowles, Lupita Nyong'o and Thandiwe Newton.
Where to Buy 2
Retailer list compiled from public information; actual availability may vary.
Timeline5
2005—2019·14 yrs
- 2005
Jewel by Lisa
Lisa Folawiyo founds Jewel by Lisa in Lagos, reimagining traditional West African Ankara prints through a contemporary lens.
- 2011
Bead & Sequin Signature
The label becomes known for hand-embellishing Ankara fabrics with sequins and beads, elevating the textile into evening wear.
- 2014
Rebrand to Lisa Folawiyo
Jewel by Lisa rebrands under the designer's own name as the label moves toward global stockists and editorial recognition.
- 2015
International Stockists
The brand gains placement at Moda Operandi and other international retailers, becoming a leading voice in African luxury.
- 2019
Council of Fashion Recognition
Lisa Folawiyo earns increased recognition from the African fashion council and mentors emerging Lagos designers.
